Lee Roberts

This fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Leeds focuses on investigating vascular disease in adipose tissue and its role in metabolic dysfunction associated with obesity. The project aims to understand the signalling relationship between adipocytes and vascular endothelial cells, particularly the protective role of an adipokine in obesity. Students will use advanced techniques such as metabolic phenotyping, animal physiological studies, human tissue co-culture, ex vivo vascular functional phenotyping, mitochondrial respirometry, biochemistry, immunoblotting, RT-qPCR, histology, and microscopy. The research is based in the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (LICAMM), a leading centre for cardiometabolic disease research. Supervision is provided by Professor Lee Roberts and Dr Amanda MacCannell, both experienced researchers in the field. The studentship is funded by the British Heart Foundation, covering UK tuition fees and providing a generous tax-free stipend. Applicants must have a strong background in biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, or related disciplines, and meet English language requirements. The application deadline is 7 November 2025, with a start date of January 2026. Interested candidates should apply online, submitting all required documentation and specifying the project and supervisors. For further information, contact Professor Lee Roberts or the graduate admissions office.

A British Heart Foundation funded 3-year PhD studentship is available at the University of Leeds, focusing on the study of adipose tissue and vascular crosstalk in the context of obesity and cardiometabolic disease. The position is ideal for candidates with a strong interest in molecular physiology, metabolism, and the mechanisms underlying obesity-related health issues. The research will be supervised by Professor Lee Roberts, an expert in molecular physiology and metabolism. The studentship offers the opportunity to work in a leading UK research environment, contributing to impactful research in cardiovascular and metabolic health. While the post highlights the need for a motivated individual with a keen interest in cardiometabolic disease, specific entry requirements such as degree level, GPA, or language proficiency are not detailed. The funding is provided by the British Heart Foundation for three years, but further financial details are not specified. Interested applicants should apply online using the provided link before the deadline of November 7th, 2024.